Looking for a new Bass

I'm pretty much a novice to playing Bass. I've been playing for about 6 months now, and I've been using a Ibanez Ergodyne EDB600 (4-String). It's a nice bass, especially for someone like myself who is a beginner. I wanted to use this bass to practice & learn, and eventually upgrade in the future. I have some x-tra holiday cash I was thinking about going out and getting a new bass. Sorta like a late Christmas, New Year's present to myself
I have $1,000-1,500 I can spend...
I originally wanted to play more of a Rock style, but have been getting more interested in the Jazzier style bass playing. I was thinking maybe a Warwick Thumb (4-String)?
I've read on here that some people think Warwicks have thick necks, and a very different sound. Of course I'm going to try the thing out first and see how it feels & sounds. I was wondering if anyone thought this would be a good choice, or would recommend anything else in my price range?